Finally Janet Jackson's "Nasty" Meets Tinashe's Modern Twist - Fama

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Before Tinashe's viral sensation "Nasty" captivated audiences, Janet Jackson had already set the bar high with her iconic 1986 track of the same name. 

Recently, Jackson celebrated this connection by incorporating a mash-up of both "Nasty" songs into her setlist for the "Together Again Tour". This gesture became a significant moment for Tinashe, who later expressed her gratitude in person during a backstage meeting with Jackson after a recent show.

Tinashe Meets Her Idol

The encounter was a dream come true for Tinashe, an R&B star who has long admired Janet Jackson. "It’s such a full-circle moment for me to have Janet recognize my work, to have her include my song in her show." 

Tinashe shared at Spotify's Songs of the Summer event in New York City. At 31, Tinashe continues to draw inspiration from Jackson, calling her "the biggest idol, the biggest reference" in her career. She praised Jackson's album The Velvet Rope, describing it as the "best album of all time" and "top-tier" in her eyes.

Despite her previous collaborations with superstars like Britney Spears, Tinashe admitted to feeling particularly starstruck when meeting Jackson, now 58. 

She described the moment as surreal and overwhelming. "I was honestly a little starstruck. I was kinda word-vomiting. I don’t really know what I said, but I told her that she’s such an inspiration to me, and I love her. It was amazing," Tinashe recounted.

Jackson, known for her reserved nature and recent decision to limit interviews, had a few heartfelt words for Tinashe. 

The legendary artist reciprocated the admiration, telling Tinashe she was an inspiration as well. Reflecting on this moment, Tinashe said, "I think I blacked out at that moment, ‘cause like, to get a compliment from Janet Jackson — are you kidding me?"

"Nasty" Climbs the Charts and Captivates TikTok

Tinashe's "Nasty," released in April, has gained significant traction, reaching No. 61 on the Billboard Hot 100. This achievement marks her first entry on the chart in nearly eight years. 

The song also secured the No. 7 spot on the rhythmic airplay chart and became a viral hit on TikTok, where it has soundtracked over 4.4 million videos. A viral dance associated with the song further propelled its success, cementing Tinashe's place in the contemporary music scene.

Adding to the song's momentum, Madonna recently featured a TikTok video soundtracked by a mash-up of Tinashe's "Nasty" and Britney Spears' "(You Drive Me) Crazy." 

This endorsement from another pop icon was a major milestone for Tinashe, reinforcing her impact in the industry.

"It’s a very affirming moment for me to know we’ve got Madonna, we’ve got Janet. All the people that I’ve idolized as queens of pop, queens of music have really shown me love," Tinashe reflected. "It really, truly means so much to me. I feel like I’m doing something right. I’m on the right track."

The Release of Quantum Baby

Tinashe's journey continues with the upcoming release of her album, Quantum Baby, set to drop on August 16. 

The album promises to showcase her evolution as an artist, with "Nasty" leading the charge. 

As Tinashe navigates her career, the support from legends like Janet Jackson and Madonna serves as a powerful affirmation of her talent and dedication to her craft.